Single Payment Scheme

The Single Payment Scheme (SPS) was introduced in 2005 and replaced the previous forms of agricultural subsidy.  The SPS is now in its third year or being but, the rules continue to evolve and there is much confusion over several aspects of the statutory regulations.

We attend many professional briefing events and are members of the Welsh Assembly Government Agricultural Partnership both of which have provided us a greater understanding of the new scheme.

The two main issues to consider are the 10 month period and cross compliance.  The latter requires claimants to adhere to Statutory Management Requirements and Good Agricultural Environment Conditions.  There are three and five year usage rules which require a sound understanding to avoid the risk of losing entitlements. It is possible to transfer entitlements either permanently or temporarily. 

Entitlements can be sold with or without land.  Entitlements can only be leased with an equivalent area of eligible land.

We are dealing with many of the complex issues caused by the introduction of the Single Payment Scheme on a daily basis and can provide advice on all matters relating to it.